Winery activities in Cape Town
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Groot Constantia
A superb example of Cape Dutch architecture, Groot Constantia is set in beautiful grounds. Not surprisingly, it can become busy with tour groups, but the estate is big enough for you to escape the crowds, if needs be. In the 18th century, Constantia wines were exported around the world and were highly acclaimed; today you should try its sauvignon blanc and pinotage.
As you approach the estate the large tasting room is first on your right. Further on is the free orientation centre, which provides an excellent overview of the estate’s history, and the beautifully restored homestead, now a museum. The interiors have been appropriately furnished; take a look at the tiny slave…
reviewed
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Klein Constantia
Part of the original Constantia estate, Klein Constantia is famous for its Vin de Constance, a deliciously sweet muscat wine (R330). It was Napoleon’s solace on St Helena, and Jane Austen had one of her heroines recommend it for having the power to heal ‘a disappointed heart’. We can’t guarantee that, but we can say that while Klein Constantia doesn’t offer the frills and bonuses of other wineries, it’s still worth visiting for its excellent tasting room and informative displays. Also try the riesling, sauvignon blanc and marlbrook, a classic Bordeaux-style blend. At the estate’s entrance, pause to look at the karamat (saint’s tomb) of Sheik Abdurachman Matebe Shah; he…
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Constantia Uitsig
The wine on sale here is actually made at the nearby Steenberg Vineyards – try their crisp semillon, luscious MCC Blanc de Blanc Brut (R325) or limited-release Muscat D’Alexandrie. It’s one for foodies since it boasts three excellent restaurants – Constantia Uitsig,La Colombe and the River Café, as well as a luxury hotel,ConstantiaUitsig.
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Buitenverwachting
Buitenverwachting means ‘beyond expectation’, which is certainly the feeling one gets on visiting this 100-hectare estate that’s known for offering good working and living conditions to its employees. Order ahead to enjoy a blissful picnic lunch in front of the 1796 manor house. For something more formal try the elegant restaurant. Beg, steal or borrow to snag a bottle of its delicious, but limited release, Christine claret. The chardonnay and Rhine riesling are among its standout whites.
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Van Loveren
Wine tasting options include pairings with cheese, chocolate and charcuterie as well as a grape juice tasting for kids (R25). Each of the trees in the tropical garden tells a story – grab the information pamphlet from reception or just sip in verdant surrounds. The low-key bistro serves excellent burgers and pizzas.
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Spier
Back towards Cape Town is the magnificent setting of Spier, which has something for everyone. This mega- estate offers steam-train trips from Cape Town (call [tel]021-419 5222 for information), horse riding, a cheetah centre, performing-arts centre, beautifully restored Cape Dutch buildings and several restaurants, including the spectacular Moyo. The wines produced here are improving, and in the tasting room you can sample many other wines. Check out the annual arts festival that runs from January to March – it’s as good a reason as any for coming here. If you want to stay over there’s a good Cape Malay–style hotel, the Village at Spier.
reviewed
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Neethlingshof
Try to make it to Neethlingshof, where a beautiful tree-lined avenue leads to a charming estate with a rose garden and restaurant. There are cellar and vineyard tours, and their pinotage (a cross between pinot noir and hermitage or shiraz) and cabernet sauvignon have won several awards.
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